Blog@Piven
The Importance of Art in Corrections
The word “improv” may spark images of playing Zip Zap Zop or that show in college your friend dragged you to—things that might seem silly or inconsequential at first. But improv has the potential to mean so much more to so many. It offers an outlet for...
Storytelling and Identity
INTRO For the past decade, Rebecca Kling has worked as an advocate, educator, and performer within the transgender rights movement. Her performance and advocacy work has always been grounded in the power of story as a way to reach hearts and change minds. She learned...
Stories, Play, and Process: The Early Days of Children’s Dramatics at Hull-House
INTRO Fiona Maxwell has worked with Piven Theatre Workshop for years as a performer, student, and teacher. While an undergrad at Northwestern, Fiona completed a thesis on children's theatre at Hull House and in doing so investigated the roots of Piven's...
Healing Through Art
INTRO Inspired by our Lab@Piven production "Lived Through This", the stories of survivors of sexual assault, this January, we wanted to discuss how art can be a healing space for survivors of sexual assault. In doing so, we asked our friends and fellow...
Immigration & Theatre
INTRO We asked Teresa to compose our first blog entry because of her deep connection with and understanding of the use of art as a way to express the plight of the immigrant experience. Her documentary theater piece, "Santuario/Sanctuary" was a perfect...